Ashes 2021-22: 2nd Test Review – Australia have the last laugh despite Buttler defiance

Australia outplayed a struggling England to take a 2-0 lead in the ongoing Ashes series with a thumping 275-run victory in the 2nd Test at Adelaide. The win has also taken Australia to the top spot of the 2021-23 World Test Championship table alongside Sri Lanka.

Chasing a massive 468, the visitors resumed the final day at 82/4. Despite some brave resistance from Jos Buttler, England were bundled out for 192 in the closing hours of Day 5. Mitchell Starch chimed in with an early wicket sending Ollie Pope back to the hut with just 4 runs to his account. Nathan Lyon then struck with the second wicket of the day, dismissing Stokes for 12. Buttler and Chris Woakes stayed firm and added 61 runs before Jhye Richardson broke the stand with Woakes’ wicket.

Much like in the first Test, Australia were in firm command for the most part at Adelaide. They declared at 473-9 in the first innings and with a clinical bowling display, dismissed England on 236. They continued their dominance by posting a steep target of 478 runs and emerged triumphant in the final session on the final day.

Top Performers

1. Marnus Labuschagne

Marnus Labuschagne is the Player of the Match #Ashes pic.twitter.com/RzHzTarZ80

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 20, 2021

Labuschagne stood out with the bat for Australia. He stitched a 172-run partnership alongside David Warner on Day 1 and exuded his sheer flair by hitting an impressive century in the first innings. The batter then followed it up with a crucial knock in the second innings as well with a splendid fifty. He is currently the highest run-getter of the series with 228 runs to his name.

2. Jhye Richardson

After Australia declared in the second innings, England had a big task in hand. But Richardson made sure he strengthened Australia furthermore. He struck with two early breakthroughs on day 4 with wickets of Haseeb Hameed and Rory Burns. Richardson then scalped three crucial wickets on the final day to secure a five-wicket haul and fashion the team’s triumph.

Stats and Milestones

•  Mitchell Starc was quite economical with the ball, claiming 6 wickets. With the feat, he reached the impressive feat of 50 wickets in day-night Tests
• Australia had entered the contest as favorites, considering the home conditions and their record in pink-ball Tests. The team exuded great character to continue their dominating record in day-night Tests. With this victory, Australia kept their 100% record intact in pink-ball Tests

What next for both teams?

The Joe Root-led side will now head to Melbourne for the Boxing Day Test, starting December 26. England will aim to punch above their weight to keep the series alive. Australia, on the other hand, will have their spirits high and will aim to seal the series in the next Test.